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Cierra Johnson of NBC 4 in Columbus, Ohio offers a candid glimpse into both her professional and personal journey. A Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep-rooted connection to family and faith, all of which have shaped her impressive career over the years. Join us as we explore this enlightening conversation with Cierra, an anchor whose story is sure to inspire.

Picture this: a bustling newsroom, an accomplished reporter, and the grit required to thrive in the ever-changing world of journalism. Cierra joins us to unravel what it's truly like behind the camera. From navigating the unpredictable demands of reporting without the glam squad, to sharing an intimate moment of her life—the picturesque proposal in Central Park.

Cierra's path wasn't always paved with ease; it began with lugging heavy equipment through the streets of Southeast Ohio during her college years at Ohio University.. Her experiences, enriched by mentorship from figures like Jerry Revish, prepared her for the challenges that awaited in cities such as San Francisco and Buffalo. The pull of home eventually led her back to central Ohio, where the familiar faces and places resonate with her sense of belonging. Her career, a testament to the blend of personal and professional growth, highlights the sustaining power of community and faith, grounding her in a field known for its relentless pace.

Beyond her work, Cierra's dedication to leaving a lasting legacy shines brightly. Her commitment to using her platform to uplift others and support meaningful causes underscores the importance of visibility and action in the community. Whether it’s supporting outreach initiatives or leading events, she emphasizes how our actions inspire and empower those around us. As Cierra reflects on her grandparents' wisdom and the joy of community involvement, she shares a heartfelt message about the positive impact we can make with intention and purpose.

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Discover how Bexley Police Chief Gary Lewis, the first African-American police chief in Bexley, Ohio, transitioned from his initial passion for art to a career in law enforcement, driven by familial ties and inspiring mentors like his detective uncle and Captain Gilbert Jones. Through personal stories, Chief Lewis opens up about the profound influence of family and community in his life, underscoring the strength of mentorship and the pivotal role it played in shaping his remarkable journey. As he reflects on his path, you'll gain insights into how he rose to become a decorated leader committed to community policing and mentoring the next wave of officers.

Join us as we explore Chief Lewis's innovative approach to policing as a business model, addressing the diverse needs of the Bexley community, including its Jewish residents and students at Capital University. We delve into the challenges of recruiting diverse backgrounds and the importance of fostering future leaders in law enforcement. Chief Lewis shares how his faith and community service, pillars of his life, continue to guide his mission in leaving a legacy of loyalty, respect, and service. His story, marked by humility and accessibility, serves as a powerful inspiration for the next generation determined to protect and serve with dedication and heart.

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Dr. Frederic Bertley, the charismatic CEO of the Center of Science and Industry, takes us on a captivating journey from his adventurous childhood mishap with a video game and a lamp cord to leading one of the most respected science centers in the U.S. We explore how these early sparks of curiosity ignited his passion for science, proving that even the most unexpected experiences can set the stage for a lifelong commitment to discovery. This episode is packed with tales of wonder and inspiration, as Dr. Bertley shares how these formative moments can encourage young minds to explore the vast potential within STEM fields.

While sports icons like LeBron James and cultural figures like Beyoncé steal the spotlight, there’s an urgent need for scientists and engineers to gain recognition for their groundbreaking contributions to society. Dr. Bertley passionately discusses this challenge and how his initiatives, such as the Free Science All Day Community Days, aim to elevate the visibility and appreciation of the scientific community. He invites us to rethink how we perceive scientists, promoting a narrative where scientific achievement is celebrated and accessible to all, especially in communities that often lack representation in these fields.

Fashion, diversity, and science intersect in delightful ways as Dr. Bertley illustrates how personal style can complement scientific identity rather than conform to stereotypes. From his favorite Jordans to the importance of visible role models, he highlights how these elements can resonate with and inspire individuals from all walks of life. By blending hip-hop influences with an educational mission, Dr. Bertley is pioneering efforts to make STEM engaging and relatable, particularly for students in underserved areas. Through hands-on experiences and innovative media projects, he is opening doors for the next generation to embrace global opportunities and create their own inspiring legacies in the world of science.

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Catherine Willis, an over 50 year member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and founder of Urban Strings, shares her inspiring journey from Cleveland's Outhwaite Homes to the Columbus Hall of Fame. With a deep-rooted commitment to nurturing young talent, Catherine emphasizes the power of community support, education, and faith in transforming lives. Hear firsthand how her upbringing in a supportive village environment and the lessons learned from her mother, a dedicated teacher, fueled her life's mission to empower underserved children.

In this episode, Catherine takes us through the creation of impactful programs like Urban Strings and the Helen Jenkins Davis Scholarship. Discover how she encourages minority students to explore their musical talents and provides financial support to African-American students in Columbus City Schools. Learn about the collaborative efforts that have turned these dreams into reality, showcasing the incredible achievements of young talents like Tristan Davis and Red Coltrane Ingram. Catherine's story is a testament to the importance of representation in the arts and the cultural enrichment these initiatives bring to communities.

Celebrate a legacy of service and empowerment as Catherine shares touching anecdotes about former students who have thrived under her mentorship. From a Juilliard graduate making waves in the arts to a plumber inspired by small gestures of kindness, the ripple effect of her work is undeniable. Catherine's induction into the Columbus Hall of Fame underscores her unwavering dedication to children's education and community service. This episode honors her faith-driven journey and the lasting impact of community support, leaving listeners inspired by the profound legacy of empowerment she's built.

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Ever wondered how faith and determination can shape a legacy? Meet our inspiring guest, Henry Golatt, an HBCU graduate and passionate small business development advocate, who joins Coach Tim Brown on the Be A Baller podcast. Raised in a faith-centered Southern community as the youngest boy of 13 siblings, Henry shares his profound journey of building a lifelong legacy in business, deeply influenced by his father, a hardworking contractor and farmer. Together, we explore how early life experiences and community support can mold one's professional path and commitment to economic development.

Prepare for an uplifting conversation as we unpack the transformative power of faith and strategic vision in professional and community growth. Henry shares his personal anecdotes, like the foresight-driven creation of a bridge over the Arkansas River and his pivotal role in the Accelerate Columbus Initiative. Through "coffee shop diplomacy," we reveal strategies that democratize business opportunities and emphasize mentorship and empowerment over fleeting accolades. This episode promises insights into crafting a lasting impact that empowers others and nurtures community advancement.

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What if you could learn the secrets of a two-time Heisman Trophy winner? Join us on the Be A Baller Podcast as we welcome the legendary Archie Griffin a two-time Heisman Trophy winner.

Faith, leadership, and legacy are central themes in Archie's life. Reflecting on the role of nightly prayers and gratitude, he discusses how these practices influenced his decision to play for Ohio State University. Despite initial doubts, pivotal moments with Coach Woody Hayes and a grounded approach to life led Archie to success both on and off the field. He emphasizes character, fairness, integrity, and the "three Ds" of desire, dedication, and determination.

Explore his inspiring journey from a sports-oriented family in Columbus, Ohio, to becoming a college football icon at Ohio State University. Discover the invaluable lessons Archie learned from his upbringing, his memorable experiences playing under coach Woody Hayes, and the significance of dotting the "I" in the Ohio State University Marching Band.

Family values and sports played pivotal roles in shaping Archie's resilience and determination. Listen as he recounts personal anecdotes from playing multiple sports at Blackburn Playground and how his family emphasized both education and athletics. Archie shares heartwarming stories of early sports participation, the importance of teamwork, and the lifelong lessons that athletic competition instilled. From the rigorous laps of organized football to his siblings' academic successes, he paints a vivid picture of the foundational experiences that molded Archie into a champion.

Archie Griffin's life has been committed to building a lasting legacy, his work ethic, and his desire to be remembered for his principles and unwavering dedication to helping others.

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On Be a Baller Podcast, Baller's Edge Live Event, Ms. Alethea Gaddis and Mr. Corey Smith, share their remarkable journeys and the profound influence education has had on their lives. Ms. Gaddis talks about her parents’ unwavering dedication despite limited opportunities, revealing how their commitment enabled her and her siblings to achieve higher education. Mr. Smith, representing "I Know I Can," discusses the responsibility adults have in preparing the younger generation for success through education and mentorship.

Our episode also shines a spotlight on the Jump Start for Kids summer tour, designed to introduce students to educational opportunities at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). I share my personal journey from high school to college and the vital role the Gattis Foundation has played in guiding students towards academic excellence. With initiatives like essay workshops and test preparation, these programs aim to help students secure scholarships and excel academically. Corey Smith’s dedication to student support through "I Know I Can" further underscores the importance of community involvement in education.

Finally, we explore how aligning education with personal dreams and aspirations can transform lives. Hear inspiring stories from students who found their ideal HBCUs and the lessons they learned along the way, from building confidence to developing discipline and assertiveness. As we wrap up, we express our heartfelt thanks to Ms. Gaddis and Mr. Smith for their invaluable contributions and encourage our listeners to support the Be A Baller podcast. Remember, always strive to be a baller and join us next week for more insights on building a lifelong legacy.

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Join us on Be A Baller podcast Live Event Baller's Edge as we hear from Kenny and Chris Crump entrepreneurial powerhouses who passionately discuss the role of mentorship in building a lifelong legacy. They share their inspiring journeys of successes in the beauty and fitness industries serves as powerful examples of what can be achieved.

We then dive into the real-world challenges faced by entrepreneurs, from the struggle to secure capital to the importance of leveraging networks. The Crump's foundation, We Elevate You Foundation is a local non-profit organization, designed to bolster black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) entrepreneurs in their journeys to build successful businesses and establish generational wealth. We Elevate You Foundation, steps in to support BIPOC entrepreneurs with essential resources like graphic design, website building, and access to capital. Don’t miss out on their stories and their mission to uplift future leaders and entrepreneurs.

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